Certified Lay Speakers (Pulpit Supply)

Lay Servants interested in preaching opportunities outside of their local congregation may pursue additional certification as Lay Speakers. A Lay Speaker is specifically called for ministry of pulpit supply and serve in the following ways:

• Serves in preaching the Word as requested by the pastor, District Superintendent, or Committee on Lay Servant Ministries
• May serve in many different areas as a Lay Servant

Required Courses*

• Lay Servant Requirements + 6 course
  • Basic Course
  • Spiritual Gifts
  • Deeper into the Bible
  • Preaching
  • Leading Worship
  • Leading Public Prayer
  • United Methodist Heritage
  • United Methodist Polity

*The CA-NV Annual Conference may add other classes to respond to specific missional contexts.

Other Requirements

• Must be a member of the local church
• Recommendation of Pastor and Charge Conference
• Conference LSM Committee interview and approval

Requirements for Recertification

• Lay Speaker Certification Application & Annual Report
• Advanced Education course every three years at minimum

LSM Certification Requirements Handout

Other links:

Course Schedule

Lay Servant Ministries Homepage

Lay Servant Track

Lay Minister Track